Education in the ACT is currently governed by the Education Act 2004. Section 29 of the Education Act 2004 states that if parents of children at a government school ask the principal for their children to receive religious education in a particular religion, the principal must ensure that reasonable time
is allowed for their children’s religious education in that religion. This section of the Education Act affirms the place of religious education in the school curriculum.
Karen Baron is your CRE contact at the ACT Churches Council
She works with churches to help them serve children and families in their local schools by teaching CRE.
Phone 0262305155
Download the CRE brochure for more information.
CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (CRE)
The ACT CHURCHES’ COUNCIL offers a coordinated approach to address Christian Religious Education (CRE) in ACT government schools, including:
* professional guidelines
* screened volunteers
* a CRE program inventory
* approved curriculum resources
* teaching and support for students in
– the belief, values and life of Christian faith for individuals and in society
– the Bible as the basis of Christianity
– Christian festivals
– respect and harmony between all people
EXISTING PROGRAMS
CRE programs already exist in various schools across the ACT, some initiated at the school level but all requiring parental permission for children to attend. Some schools have an in-class program, special assemblies or term visits.
Parents can place a request for CRE at their child's school by completing a form and speaking directly with their child’s school principal. They can network with other interested parents and encourage them to do the same. You could also indicate their interest in becoming a volunteer in a CRE program.
Once a Principal has received requests for CRE s/he will contact the CRE Coordinator to access the service of the ACT Churches’ Council. The Coordinator will:
* notify participating churches
* liaise between your school and the churches to assist in the establishment of a suitable CRE program
* record details of the CRE program
* ensure that all documentation is in order and facilitate training opportunities
* be a point of contact
*provide further information should your school desire Christian links beyond CRE